Malacca Tour - The Best Walking Tour You Ever Had In Malaysia

Mabel Collins

October 15, 2024

Nestled along the scenic coast of Malaysia, Malacca (or Melaka in Malay) has been one of the popular destinations that many travelers around the world want to visit. This place is not famous for the beauty of natural or gorgeous scenery, this place is totally filled with a vibe of history and ancient. Moreover, Malacca is also the most treasured UNESCO world heritage, drawing attention from visitors. With its colonial architecture next to the riverside, this historic state gives a strong impression for all travelers who come here.

Calling out for historical lovers, we will now get through the Malacca tour where you can walk around many red buildings and experience many things there. Let’s get started with us now!

Welcome to The Journey of History in Malacca Tour

As mentioned above, Malacca is often referred to as the “Historical State” of Malaysia. Established in the 15th century, it was one of the most famous trade centers which engaged the local traders with those from the Sultanate of India, China, the Middle East, and Europe. Malacca is strategically located at a major crossroad of world trade and, as a result, it became a great confluence of cultures. Over time, Malacca fell under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule, which makes all the special architectural styles that you will see today.

Dutch Square

Start your Malacca tour guide with a visit to Dutch Square - is Malacca's major central point, surrounded by famous buildings, most of which are red and were built by the Dutch, hence the square's name. The Tang Bang Swee Clock Tower lies in the center, surrounded by Christ Church, the Stadthuys, and the main tourist information center. There's a cafe near the river where you can try the famed local cendol. This cool, sweet treat made with green rice flour jelly, palm sugar, coconut milk, and red beans is an excellent dessert for you.

Dutch Square

Dutch Square

Discover St. Paul’s Hill and St. Paul’s Church

This iconic hilltop ruin is one of Malacca’s most famous historical sites. Originally built in 1521 by the Portuguese, St. Paul’s Church gives the whole view of the city and the sea for travelers who come here to visit. Although the church is now a shell of its former self, its crumbling walls and gravestones tell tales of a bygone era.

Stroll Down Jonker Street

Jonker Street, also known as Jonker Walk, is Malacca's center hub, with well-preserved landmarks, beautifully renovated homes, museums, cozy cafes, and small boutiques.

Throughout the day, Jonker Street becomes the center of attraction for people who are interested in buying souvenirs, antiques and more for your friends and family. You must pay a visit to the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, a well-preserved Peranakan household, to know about the marriage of Chinese and Malay culture of local identity that deeply shaped the local identities.

At night time, the Jonker Street becomes a lively night market, especially on the weekends. You can get many goods from the local street stores like handcrafted jewelry and accessories to the latest gadgets.

Jonker Street at night time

Jonker Street at night time

Christ Church and The Stadthuys

Located in Dutch Square, the vibrant red-colored Christ Church is an iconic landmark built by the Dutch in 1753. Next to it is The Stadthuys, believed to be the oldest surviving Dutch building in the East. It is interesting to mention that these constructions are a proof of the Dutch colonization period, and the whole museum The Stadthuys, is the home to the Museum of History and Ethnography, which presents traditional costumes, textile, agricultural tools, and artifacts from Malacca’s various cultural communities.

Take a Malacca River Cruise

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Malacca tour is from the water. The Malacca River Cruise takes you on a scenic journey to see around the city with colorful riverside buildings and bridges adorned with street art.

The cruise runs during the day and in the evening, but many visitors recommend the evening cruise when the riverside is illuminated by lights. It’s a tranquil and picturesque way to explore the city. Besides the landmarks, the Tan Boon Seng Bridge, Dutch Square and those modern street paintings full of history are among the numerous murals there that one can admire while cruising along the river.

Malacca Riverside

Malacca Riverside

Visit the Temple Street

When you hear the Temple street, like its name, you can witness and discover many temples along the Street in Malacca. Malacca, as a commercial port, naturally attracted people from all over the world, bringing with them a variety of religions.

As you go up Temple Street, you will pass San Duo Temple on your left, then Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple (one of Malaysia's oldest Hindu temples, where people have worshiped since the 1780s), and finally Kampung Kling Mosque. This mosque features architectural motifs of Chinese, Malay, Hindu styles as well as European designs. Its minaret Imitates a Chinese pagoda with the full name.

Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

Continuing the Malacca tour guide, we will discover the magnificent Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is one of Malacca's many pre-WWII Peranakan mansions. Located near Jonker Street, the building once housed four generations of a local family and is now a well-preserved house museum dedicated to the Peranakan spirit and culture. Simply purchase an entry ticket or schedule a guided tour to see the stunning hand-painted tiles, historic furniture, and artifacts that will transport you back in time. If you come to Jonker Street, Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is a destination that you should not miss in your travel plan.

Inside the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

Inside the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

Prepare For The Malacca Tour

How to get there

By Car

Driving from Kuala Lumpur (KL to Malacca tour):

The most common way to get to Malacca is by car, which is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive (around 145 kilometers) from Kuala Lumpur.
You can take the North-South Expressway (E2) and follow the signs for Malacca. The route is well-maintained and scenic.

Renting a Car:

Many rental agencies are available in Kuala Lumpur. Ensure you have a valid driver's license and are familiar with local driving regulations.

By Train

Train to Tampin:

While there isn’t a direct train to Malacca, you can take a train from Kuala Lumpur to Tampin, which is the nearest train station.
From Tampin, you can catch a taxi or a bus to Malacca, which is about a 30-minute drive away.

Booking Tickets:

Train tickets can be booked through the KTM Intercity website or at the train station.

By Plane

Flying to Malacca:

Malacca has its own airport, Malacca International Airport (MKZ), which offers limited flights primarily from domestic locations.
For international travelers, it might be more practical to fly into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and then take a bus or car to Malacca.

If you haven’t had a valid visa, GVC will help you to get a Malaysia e-visa without difficulties. Within a few days, travelers can get your travel documents with simple steps and basic documents.

Traveling to Malacca is easy

Traveling to Malacca is easy

Bring Cash

While many places accept credit cards, smaller shops and food stalls may only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry enough Malaysian Ringgit for small purchases and street food. There are several ATMs around the city for your convenience.

Stay Connected

Consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected during your trip. This will help you navigate, find information on attractions, and stay in touch with fellow travelers or locals.

Conclusion

If you prepare for your Malacca tour, it will make your travel experience better and will also allow you to get completely involved in the city's charm. The beauty of Malacca with its long history, various culture and traditions and different local foods is so overwhelming that the place will definitely turn out to be not just memorable but a unique one as well. Through organizing in advance and attending the local people, you take the lead in realizing the major visuals in this fantastic Malaysian city. Wish you a safe and pleasant journey!

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